2022 High Country Festival

Published on 25 August 2022

High Country Festival

The Mansfield High Country Festival returns to its pre-COVID capacity with a full calendar of events between Friday 28 October and Tuesday 1 November.

Many community favourites will return with the program officially kicking off at 5pm on 28 October as at the Botanic Park. There will be children’s entertainment, Mansfield Producers’ Market, Farmer Daryl’s petting zoo, roaming entertainers, FReeZA youth rock-out concert and a fireworks display. Local wine, beer and cider will be available alongside a selection of delicious food options including pizza, bao buns, dumplings, ice cream and twisty potatoes.

For the first time, Mansfield Shire Council will hold a quiet session from 4pm - 5pm featuring a new sensory tent and quiet zone for those who are sensitive to the carnival atmosphere.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said that spring was a particularly exciting time of the year across the Mansfield Shire.

“It’s wonderful to see The High Country Festival back up and running at full steam. The event provides an opportunity for our community to come together,” said Cr Tehan.

“The festival program features many great activities and events for our whole community to enjoy. We’re grateful to those who are leading these events, with activities from our arts community, volunteer groups, musicians and more. This is truly a family style event with something for everyone.”

There are numerous activities for visitors and locals of all ages across the 5-day festival. In addition to the opening event, the program includes Mullum Mullum wetlands tours, Mansfield Open Studio Trail featuring over 35 locations, Mansfield Bush Market, Median to Rare sculpture competition, Devonshire tea and book sale, live music, Torchlight and Grand parades and the Mansfield Autistic Statewide Services breakfast on the lawn.

This year’s new event ‘Amped up’ will see our High Street Amphitheatre come alive on Saturday 29 October after the Grand Parade with live music, entertainment, food and wine.

Other events making a return are:

  • The Emergency Services Torchlight Parade, honouring our hard-working emergency services personnel and volunteers
  • Martins Garage Parade – a signature event where participants dress up, show off and parade along High Street. Cash prizes presented for the best entries in each category – register your entry now - highcountryfestival.com.au
  • High Country Picnic Race Meeting on Melbourne Cup Day

This family day features free children’s activities and a food court arena with a great selection of delicious fare including savoury, sweet and fresh roasted coffee. 
Children under 16 enjoy free race track entry.

Cr Tehan said the festival would not be possible without the sponsors and acknowledged their ongoing support and contribution.

“There are a number of new and long term sponsors and festival partners who are very supportive of the event. We’re grateful for their support,” said Cr Tehan.

Major Sponsors include:

  • Ros Ritchie Wines
  • Marks Supa IGA Mansfield
  • Mansfield Regional Produce Store
  • Martins Garage
  • District Property Group – Mansfield
  • Mansfield Rotary Club
  • Mansfield CFA
  • Prize sponsor for Martins Garage Parade – Martins Garage, Mansfield Printing, District Property Group, Mal Ryan & Glen and Merchant Coffee Roasters

For all the latest information and to register your float for the grand parade, visit the Mansfield High Country Festival website at highcountryfestival.com.au.

There is no BYO alcohol at this event. This is a dog free event and pet owners are advised to prepare for local fireworks. 

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